It’s undeniable that beaches are the best destinations in Malang. Every corner of  Malang hides many places to relax, enjoy the sunshine, play in the sand, or swim in the sea away from the crowds. But, did you know that there is a private beach in Malang? Yes, Gatra Beach, a beach not well-known among tourists, is a hidden private beach in Malang.

Gatra Beach is part of the Clungup Mangrove Conservation (CMC). Although close to the famous Tiga Warna Beach, Gatra Beach, located in Tambakrejo Village, Sumbermanjing Wetan District, Malang Regency, is still not widely known by tourists visiting Malang due to its hidden location and difficult access. For those interested in vacationing at Gatra Beach, check out the information below first!

The Origin of The Name Gatra Beach

According to local legend, Gatra Beach Malang is named "Gatra" from the word "gatra-gatra" which means a sacred or holy place. The locals consider this beach sacred and holy because it has a strong aura and energy. They believe the beach has magical powers that can bring good luck and peace to those who visit it.

Main Attractions of Gatra Beach

For those wanting a low-budget Raja Ampat experience, you don't need to go far to Papua, because in East Java there is a beach similar to Raja Ampat. This beach, called Gatra, has stunning sea views with amazing color gradations. Gatra Beach has a cluster of coral rocks forming small islands. These small islands make Gatra Beach also known as the “Raja Ampat of East Java,” like Teluk Asmara Beach. The clear dark blue water is mesmerizing to anyone who sees it.

Activities to Do

A beach visit feels incomplete without engaging in some activities. Even though this beach is newly opened, there are many activities visitors can enjoy, including:

1. Swimming While Seeing Coral Reefs

 From morning until noon, the sea around Gatra Beach tends to be calm. This allows visitors to enjoy the beauty of the beach by swimming and playing in the water without worrying about big waves. The clear, bright blue water adds to the appeal for visitors wanting to enjoy the fresh seawater. While swimming, you will also see the beautiful coral reefs under the water.

2. Canoeing

If you can’t swim, don’t worry! You can still enjoy fun activities like canoeing. At this beach, you can rent canoes provided by the management. Canoes can be ridden by two people or even alone if you want to enjoy time on the water by yourself. So, don’t hesitate to try canoeing and feel the excitement!

3. Camping

 For camping enthusiasts, this beautiful beach is the perfect place to spend time. You can set up a tent on the beach and enjoy a beautiful night there. Camping at this beach also offers a different experience than staying in a hotel or other accommodations.

Route to Gatra Beach

Gatra Beach is located at Jl. Sendang Biru, Sawah/Kebun Area, Tambakrejo, Sumbermanjing Wetan District, Malang Regency. You have to travel about 70 km from downtown Malang, which takes around 3-4 hours.

From Malang, continue towards Turen until you see a signpost for the beach at an intersection. Follow the route to Sendangbiru Beach on the left. Continue the journey until you find signs to Clungup Beach. Follow the signs until you reach the village where the Clungup Mangrove Conservation office is located.

Another alternative route is through Balekambang Beach. From Malang City, head towards Gondanglegi, then continue to Bantur until you reach the intersection before entering Balekambang. Turn left and follow the Southern Cross Road until you arrive in front of Clungup Mangrove Conservation.

Entrance Fees and Operating Hours

Fees:

1. Entrance ticket: Rp10,000

2. Parking fee: Rp5,000 for motorcycles, Rp10,000 for cars, Rp15,000 for minivans

3. Canoe rental: Rp25,000 (1 person), Rp50,000 (3 people)

Operating hours: Gatra Beach is open 24 hours every day.

Facilities

Gatra Beach is equipped with fairly complete facilities such as public bathrooms, gazebos, food stalls, a prayer room, parking lots, and homestays.

Guide to Entering Gatra Beach

Gatra Beach is a tourist destination in a conservation area, so there are rules and procedures to follow when visiting:

1. Before deciding to go to Gatra Beach, make sure your vehicle is in good condition because the road to the beach is still gravel.

2. Upon arrival, you will be directed to stop at Pos 1. This post provides an initial briefing such as confirming visits to Gatra Beach or Tiga Warna Beach and confirming booking names if going to Tiga Warna Beach.

3. Since Pos 1 is also used as a car parking area, you need to walk about twenty minutes to the next post. If you are riding a motorcycle, you can continue riding until you reach the motorcycle parking area.

4. Next, you will arrive at Pos 2. This is where you need to confirm your visit to the beach. If you only want to go to Gatra Beach, you do not need to bring a guide.

5. Pos 2 is also a post for checking your belongings. Visitors are prohibited from littering, so take care of your belongings to avoid fines later.

6. After completing the process at Pos 2, you can continue your journey to Gatra Beach. The journey to Gatra Beach does not require a guide; you need to walk about 30 minutes following the straight path provided.

Visitor Reviews

"I’ve been to Gatra 3 times. It’s a beautiful, comfortable, clean, and safe beach for kids even though you have to walk quite a bit from the car park, but it’s all worth it." - Amel

"One of the beaches that is still not very crowded. If the weather is nice, the beach is truly beautiful." - Priska

Gatra Beach in Malang is a perfect destination for those seeking stunning natural beauty and a tranquil atmosphere. Its somewhat hidden location makes it feel like a private beach. So, what are you waiting for? Add Gatra Beach to your vacation list now!